Pressure loss mitigation and durable valve

ABSTRACT

An irrigation valve comprises a housing including a chamber, a fluid inlet comprising a fluid inlet passage configured to fluidly communicate with a first conduit, wherein the fluid inlet is configured to communicate fluid from the first conduit to the chamber, a fluid outlet comprising a fluid outlet passage configured to fluidly communicate with a second conduit, wherein the fluid outlet is configured to communicate fluid from the chamber to the second conduit, a rigid substrate and a stretchable, compressible and/or flexible membrane on a surface of the rigid substrate, wherein the rigid substrate is configured to be positioned so that the membrane is located between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet when the valve is in a closed position, and wherein a fluid pressure within the chamber causes the membrane to seal a first orifice of the fluid outlet passage when the valve is in the closed position.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claimis identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the presentapplication are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.

BACKGROUND Field

The present disclosure relates to valves, including valves configured tocontrol the flow of fluids.

Description of the Related Art

Agricultural processes utilize valves to control fluids for the growthand management of plants and livestock. These processes includeirrigation, fertigation, chemigation, pest (e.g., animal, insect, viral,fungal, bacterial) control, weed control, cooling of crops andlivestock, dust control, and drinking. Additionally, industrialprocesses (non-agricultural) utilize valves for control of fluids thatare and including feedstock (e.g., for bottled water) or where fluidscontrol something (e.g., cooling, dust control).

However, conventional valves suffer from disadvantageous pressure loss,lack of reliability with both valve and valve automation components, andthe expense and complexity of valve automation components.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects inorder to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary isnot an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intendedto neither identify key or critical elements of all aspects nordelineate the scope of any or all aspects. Its sole purpose is topresent some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as aprelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a valve that comprises ahousing including: a chamber; a fluid inlet comprising a fluid inletpassage configured to fluidly communicate with a first conduit, whereinthe fluid inlet is configured to communicate fluid from the firstconduit to the chamber; a fluid outlet comprising a fluid outlet passageconfigured to fluidly communicate with a second conduit, wherein thefluid outlet is configured to communicate fluid from the chamber to thesecond conduit; an impermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/orstretchable membrane, wherein the valve is configured to position saidmembrane between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet when the valve isin a closed position, and wherein a fluid pressure within the chambercauses said membrane to seal a first orifice of the fluid outlet passagewhen the valve is in the closed position.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a valve, comprising: achamber; a fluid inlet comprising a fluid inlet passage configured tofluidly communicate with a first fluid conduit, wherein the fluid inletis configured to communicate fluid from the first fluid conduit to thechamber; a fluid outlet comprising a fluid outlet passage configured tofluidly communicate with a second fluid conduit, wherein the fluidoutlet is configured to communicate fluid from the chamber to the secondfluid conduit; an impermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/orstretchable membrane, wherein said membrane is configured to be slidablypositioned so that said membrane is located between the fluid inlet andthe fluid outlet when the valve is in a closed position, and wherein afluid pressure causes said membrane to seal a first orifice of the fluidoutlet passage when the valve is in the closed position.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a valve, comprising: achamber; a fluid inlet comprising a fluid inlet passage configured tofluidly communicate with a first fluid conduit, wherein the fluid inletis configured to communicate fluid from the first fluid conduit to thechamber; a fluid outlet comprising a fluid outlet passage configured tofluidly communicate with a second fluid conduit, wherein the fluidoutlet is configured to communicate fluid from the chamber to the secondfluid conduit; an impermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/orstretchable membrane, wherein said membrane is configured to be slidablypositioned so that the said membrane is located between the fluid inletand the fluid outlet when the valve is in a closed position, and whereina fluid pressure causes said membrane to seal a first orifice of thefluid outlet passage when the valve is in the closed position.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a valve, comprising: achamber; a fluid inlet comprising a fluid inlet passage configured tofluidly communicate with a first fluid conduit, wherein the fluid inletis configured to communicate fluid from the first fluid conduit to thechamber; a fluid outlet comprising a fluid outlet passage configured tofluidly communicate with a second fluid conduit, wherein the fluidoutlet is configured to communicate fluid from the chamber to the secondfluid conduit; an impermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/orstretchable membrane, wherein said membrane is configured to bepositioned so that said membrane is located between the fluid inlet andthe fluid outlet when the valve is in a closed position, and wherein afluid pressure causes said membrane to seal a first orifice of the fluidoutlet passage when the valve is in the closed position.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to an irrigation valve,comprising: a plastic housing having an exterior surface and an interiorsurface, the interior surface defining at least one chamber, the plastichousing having: an exterior surface; a fluid inlet defined by a fluidinlet wall, the fluid inlet wall extending outward from the exteriorsurface, the fluid inlet wall defining a threaded first fluid inletorifice configured to engage a first threaded fluid conduit, wherein thefluid inlet wall does not extend into the chamber, and wherein the fluidinlet comprises a second fluid inlet orifice defined by the interiorsurface of the housing, wherein the fluid inlet is configured tocommunicate fluid from the first fluid conduit from the first orifice tothe second fluid inlet orifice, and from the second fluid inlet orificeto the chamber; a fluid outlet defined by a fluid outlet wall, the fluidoutlet wall comprising: a first portion extending outward from theexterior surface opposite the fluid inlet wall, the first portion of thefluid outlet wall defining a threaded first fluid outlet orificeconfigured to engage a second threaded fluid conduit, a second portionextending inwards from the interior surface of the housing interiorsurface into the chamber, wherein the fluid outlet comprises a secondfluid outlet orifice defined by the second portion of the fluid outletwall, wherein the fluid outlet is configured to communicate fluid fromthe chamber to the second threaded fluid conduit; a movable rigidsubstrate having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the firstsurface is closer to the second fluid outlet orifice than the secondsurface; and a compressible, impermeable, membrane mounted on the firstsurface of the rigid substrate, wherein the movable rigid substrate isconfigured to be positioned so that the compressible, impermeable,membrane is located between the second fluid inlet orifice and thesecond fluid outlet orifice when the irrigation valve is in a closedposition, and wherein a fluid pressure within the chamber causes thecompressible, impermeable, membrane to seal the second fluid outletorifice, and not the second fluid inlet orifice, when the irrigationvalve is in the closed position, and wherein the movable rigid substrateis optionally configured to move along a path having a start and end, atleast half of which is along a first axis.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a valve, comprising: ahousing having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interiorsurface defining a chamber, the housing having: a fluid inlet comprisinga first fluid inlet orifice, configured to fluidly communicate with afirst fluid conduit, and a second fluid inlet orifice in fluidcommunication with the chamber, wherein the fluid inlet is configured tocommunicate fluid from the first fluid conduit from the first orifice tothe second fluid inlet orifice, and from the second fluid inlet orificeto the chamber; a fluid outlet defined by a fluid outlet wall, the fluidoutlet wall comprising: a first portion extending outward from theexterior surface of the valve opposite the fluid inlet wall, the firstportion of the fluid outlet wall defining a first fluid outlet orificeconfigured to receive a second fluid conduit, a second portion extendinginwards from the interior surface of the housing interior surface intothe chamber, wherein the fluid outlet comprises a second fluid outletorifice defined by the second portion of the fluid outlet wall, whereinthe fluid outlet is configured to communicate fluid from the chamber tothe second fluid conduit; an impermeable, compressible membrane, whereinthe impermeable, compressible membrane is configured to be slidablypositioned so that the impermeable, compressible membrane is locatedbetween the second fluid inlet orifice and the second fluid outletorifice when the valve is in a closed position, and wherein a fluidpressure within the chamber causes the impermeable, compressible,membrane to seal the second fluid outlet orifice when the valve is inthe closed position, thereby providing a single interface seal, andwherein the impermeable, compressible membrane is optionally configuredto move along a path at least half of which is along a first axis.

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a valve, comprising: ahousing having an exterior surface and an interior surface, the interiorsurface defining a chamber, the housing having: a fluid inlet comprisinga fluid inlet passage configured to fluidly communicate with a firstfluid conduit, wherein the fluid inlet is configured to communicatefluid from the first fluid conduit to the chamber; a fluid outletcomprising a fluid outlet passage configured to fluidly communicate witha second fluid conduit, wherein the fluid outlet is configured tocommunicate fluid from the chamber to the second fluid conduit; animpermeable, compressible membrane on the first surface of the rigidsubstrate, wherein the impermeable, compressible membrane is configuredto be moved along a path, more than half of which is along a first axisso that the impermeable, compressible membrane is located between thefluid inlet and the fluid outlet when the valve is in a closed position,and wherein a fluid pressure within the chamber causes the impermeable,compressible membrane to seal a first orifice of the fluid outletpassage when the valve is in the closed position thereby providing asingle sealing interface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawingssummarized below. Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may bere-used to indicate correspondence between referenced elements. Thedrawings are provided to illustrate example embodiments described hereinand are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

FIGS. 1A-G illustrate an example 4-way piston valve.

FIGS. 2A-G illustrate an example 3-way piston valve.

FIGS. 3A-I illustrate an example motorized piston valve.

FIGS. 4A-H illustrate an example motorized slide valve.

FIGS. 5A-F illustrate an example motorized slide short valve.

FIGS. 6A-G illustrate an example motorized pivot valve.

FIGS. 7A-D illustrate an example electrical circuit for FIGS. 3-6.

FIGS. 8A-N illustrate an example another example motorized pivot valve,an example motorized pivot valve bar linkage and membrane assembly andexample dimensions, an example circuit board assembly and positioningfor the example motorized pivot valve, example motorized pivot valve wetand dry chambers, and example motorized pivot valve exterior dimensions.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example valve electrical circuit

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An aspect of the present disclosure relates to an enhanced valve thatprovides reduced pressure drop and higher reliability than conventionalvalves.

Fluid valves regulate, direct, or control flow of fluids by opening,closing, or partially obstructing passageways. As used herein, the term“fluid” may include, by way of example, agricultural, industrial, anddrinkable fluids, aqueous solutions, gases, liquids, fluidized solids,and slurries.

A representative valve in agricultural and industrial applications is a“control valve” which switches fluid flow “On” or “Off”. Such valves maybe two or three-way diaphragm valves or piston valves and can optionallybe automated with electric pilots (e.g., a solenoid valve). By offurther illustration, a valve may be a gate valve, a ball valve, adiaphragm valve, a plug valve, a knife valve, a curtain valve, a pinchvalve, or a slide valve. Control valves can be modified into “flowcontrol valves” which introduce pressure loss to modify fluid flowrates. Herein, control and flow-control valves may be referred tosingularly as a “valve” or in the plural as ‘valves”.

Valve design is dictated by several factors, including cost andfunction. Low cost valves (e.g., such as a diaphragm valve) aretypically designed for a single function such as On-OFF fluid control.Additional functions that, for example reduce pressure loss,conventionally require costly engineering features and/or componentssuch as larger or highly engineered flow passages. As an example, balland gate valves, which have ultra-low-pressure losses, conventionallyrequire costly automation systems, such as high-power motors because ofthe higher friction from two valve seats and/or continuous seat contactwith channels and guides for the sealing elements.

In contrast to such conventional valves, an aspect of the presentdisclosure relates to low cost, low pressure-loss valves, optionallywith single seats, where the single seats are in controlled intermittentcontact with sealing elements. Advantageously, certain disclosed valvescan optionally be automated at relatively low cost using inexpensivepilots such as, by way of example, low power motors or solenoids.

Fluid pressure-loss or friction loss (“pressure loss” or “loss”)describes pressure drop between where a fluid enters a system orcomponent (e.g., a valve) and exits. Pressure loss is a complex functionof flow-path geometry, fluid properties, and flow rate. Flow through avalve produces flow patterns that are a combination of laminar,turbulent or transitional as vividly described by Osborne Reynolds (whothe Reynolds number (Re), which is used to predict flow patterns indifferent fluid flow situations, is named after). Laminar flow isdescribed as “orderly” whereas turbulent flow is “chaotic” and leads togreatest pressure losses. In inexpensive valves pressure loss is awidespread problem due to minimal laminar flow capabilities. Forexample, conventional ¾″ diaphragm control valves can produce pressurelosses as high as 5-10 psi at flow rates of 25 gallons per minute (gpm).

Valves of many sizes, typically ⅛″ to 3′ in diameter, are used inindustrial and agricultural systems. An example agricultural irrigationsystem is a center pivot machine employing, by way of illustrativeexample, 1-150 sprinklers across approximately 1,000-2,000 feet of 3-10″diameter pipe spans, rotating around a fixed point. Sprinklers closestto the center may deliver fluids at 0.1-3.0 gpm, whereas outersprinklers may deliver fluids at rates that can exceed 20 gpm. Valvesare used in pivot applications, including and optionally, ¾″ valves forcontrol of sprinklers including to prevent fluid runoff or groundwaterpollution in areas of the field where less fluid is needed, directionalspraying to keep fluid off of hardware, and “end guns” where fluid issprayed beyond the end of the pivot.

Pressure loss is an important consideration in industrial andagricultural applications for reasons including:

a. Fluid systems generally should run at lowest practical pressures fora given application to save energy. Lost pressure requires greater andcostlier fluid pressures and larger pumps in both industrial andagricultural applications.

b. Pressure is needed to deliver sufficient fluid flow rates andamounts. Inadequate pressure, and therefore inadequate flow, results inagricultural and industrial processes receiving inadequate fluids.

c. Pressure is needed to deliver sufficient area coverage or sprinkler“throw”. Inadequate pressure means the distance fluid travels, onceejected from a sprinkler or other orifice, is reduced and thereforefluid coverage is reduced. Other coverage issues may arise in industrialapplications, as in a mining or cattle applications, where dust controlis achieved via sprinklers.

In contrast to the conventional valves discussed above, disclosed hereinare valves with low-pressure loss, optionally and in the case of anexample embodiment of a ¾″ valve, producing less than 2-5 psi pressureloss at a flow rate of 25 gpm. The disclosed valves may be optionally beconfigured to deliver high pressure loss in order to function as flowcontrol valves. Disclosed are multiple example designs with one or moreimpermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchable membranesattached to a rigid membrane support and assembly that slides, rolls,spins, rotates, swings, repositions, creeps, falls, settles, flows,spread, and/or flips over and seals to a rigid valve seat.

The membrane has the larger cross section and the stationary matingelement has the smaller cross section. Said combination should enable amore durable membrane versus a smaller cross section of the membrane.Other flexible-rigid combinations may be utilized, including a flexibleseat combined with a rigid membrane.

Optionally, sealing may be performed on the downstream (outflow) side ofthe valve using a single sealing interface. The optional single sealinginterface (on downstream side versus sealing both downstream andupstream) utilizes pressure delivered from a valve inlet to hold thevalve seat closed. Advantageously, a single sealing seat requires lessfriction to change position versus two sealing interfaces or seats, aswith conventional ball and gate valves that seal both on the upstreamand downstream sides or seats.

Certain example embodiments seal only on the outlet side of the valve(in contrast with certain conventional valves which require a structurethat seals both the inlet and outlet side). Referring now to FIGS. 1A-6Gand 8A-8N, the example membrane 303 has a larger cross section (widthand thickness) than the stationary and more rigid mating and sealingelement or seat 100 and said membrane may be affixed to the membranesupport 312 with a multitude of techniques including screws and/oradhesive. Optionally, on the inside of the outlet side 140 of the valve,the seat protrudes inward towards an impermeable, compressible and/orflexible and/or stretchable membrane. When the valve is in a closedstate and depressurized, a small distance (0-5 mm in a ¾″ valve) formsbetween the membrane and seat as the membrane retracts from apressurized or stretched, compressed, or flexible state. The valvedimensions are such that minimized friction and contact forms betweenthe membrane and the seat in the absence of pressure. Optionally, theseat 100 may not protrude and therefore may be parallel with the insidesurface of the valve as long as the valve's component dimensions changeto bring the membrane within a certain distance (0-5 mm in a ¾″ valve)of the seat. Pressure is required to seal between the membrane 303 andthe seat 100, and in a closed state, while pressurized, there is nospace between the membrane and the seat and the membrane's impermeable,compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchable properties facilitatecontact with the seal. The membrane can flex, stretch or otherwise moveaway from the membrane support structure 312 beginning at the supportinterface 313 and towards the valve seat 100 (at the interior orifice ofthe outlet passageway that fluidly communicates with an outlet orificeconfigured to be coupled to a fluid conduit) (see, e.g., FIGS. 1A-D).When the valve is in the closed or “Off” state, and when fluid is fullyor partially depressurized, the membrane partially or fully breaks sealon its own or in the presence of vacuum and/or gravity forces on themembrane and/or fluids, and fluids fully or partially drain from theinlet or outlet. Accordingly, disclosed embodiments are minimallysusceptible to freezing damage from the expansion of fluids that mayexpand and crack conventional valve structures. When the valve is fullyor partially depressurized in the “On” position, similar freezeprotection is provided with even less hindrance to fluid drainage.

Certain disclosed example embodiments have a mostly laminar fluid flowpath, minimizing pressure loss, however pressure loss and flow controlcan be achieved by partially opening or closing the valve or byachieving a partial seal. No springs are required but may be used.Further, certain disclosed embodiments do not utilize a wedging actionor plug in forming a seal when the valve is closed. The use of wedgingaction in sealing a valve may disadvantageously prevent water drainagefrom the valve, which may result in valve damage in freezing conditionsas the frozen water in the valve, which expands relative to water in thefluid state, may burst or otherwise damage the valve. By contrast, incertain disclosed embodiments, when the valve is in the “off”, closedposition, and when fluid is fully or partially depressurized, themembrane partially or fully breaks seal on its own or in the presence ofvacuum and/or gravity forces on the membrane and/or fluids, and fluidsfully or partially drain from the inlet and/or outlet, therebyinhibiting the occurrence of frozen fluids within the valve, and theresulting damage.

The disclosed embodiments are durable and may optionally have designedmean-times-to-failure greater than one million on/Off cycles, even insolids-laden fluid, such as sandy water. Conventional valves are proneto diaphragm failure via flexing which causes stress fractures with meantimes to failure in the range of thousands of cycles depending onpressure. Certain disclosed valve closure members (or membranes) areconfigured with an impermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/orstretchable membrane (which may optionally be mounted on a rigidsubstrate, such as a sliding rigid substrate examples of which aredescribed herein), so damage from flexing is significantly reduced. Themembrane can optionally be thicker than that of a conventional valvediaphragm (typically 0.025-0.500″), however optionally the preferredrage is 0.01″-36.0″ with about a 0.188″ thickness being especiallypreferred for a ¾″ valve.

In conventional gate and similar valves, which use guides (e.g., slots,channels, or other guides), such guides add to friction when opening orclose the gate. Said guides sometimes also function as valve seats andgenerally ensure proper alignment and/or sealing of valve closuremembers and other mobile valve elements. Disadvantageously, these guidescan accumulate debris and hinder movement of the valve closure membersand other mobile valve elements. In the following disclosed embodiments,guides are minimized or not used (and so the issues of friction anddebris blockages are correspondingly reduced), but optionally can beused.

Optionally, the rigid exterior or interior of the valve and componentsmay be made of combinations of chemical resistant plastic compounds suchas acetal, glass filled nylon, polyvinyl chloride, chlorinated polyvinylchloride, polypropylene, and/or polyvinylidene fluoride. These compoundsmay include UV blocking fillers such as carbon black to thereby enhancesun resistance. Injection molded, milled, and/or extruded plastics maybe utilized. While a metal exterior is may be used, plastic has theadvantages of corrosion resistance, cost, and light weight constructionthat is still resistant to structural damage

Optionally, the rigid exterior or interior of the valve and componentsmay be made of non-corrosive, low friction, wear resistant material suchas UHMW, PET, PBT, Teflon, Delrin, Polyimide, PEEK, PPS, nylon, Acetal,Polyester, stainless steel, or brass.

Optionally, impermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchableinterior plastics, such as membranes and O-rings, may be ofnon-corrosive material such as nylon nitrile or rubber or rubber-likematerial such as Neoprene, Nitrile, Viton™, EPDM, chlorosulfonatedpolyethylene (CSPE) synthetic rubber, Butyl, red rubber. Impermeable,flexible and/or stretchable and compressible materials may benon-reinforced or reinforced with an unlimited number of layers offlexible or rigid reinforcement material such as the above-mentionedmaterials, which may be wicking or non-wicking. Optionally, theimpermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchable materialcan encompass a broad range of hardness (e.g., 0-100 durometer on aShore A schedule) depending on fluid or gas pressures. With fluidpressures of 0-200 psi, durometers of 20-70 (Shore A) are functional.With any material, low or high fluid absorption is optional.

Optionally, the speed at which the valve opens or closes can be adjustedfor a fast close (e.g., where the valve closes in less than a second) ora slow close (e.g., where the valve closes in 1-60 seconds) to preventor reduce water hammer.

Valve pilots with fluid ports are easily damaged by fluid particulateand fluid chemistry problems. To avoid such particulate and chemistryproblems, motors may be used to open and/or close a valve, an advantageis that a solenoid, or other similar pilot, is not required, whichadvantageously eliminates the need for a fluid filter to producefiltered fluid, though a filter may be used.

While example ranges of dimensions are described, other dimensions maybe used. Optionally, certain dimensional ratios may be maintained evenwhen the dimensions are varies. For example, example dimensions ofcertain disclosed embodiments are illustrated in respective figures,including thickness and length dimensions. The ratio of thickness/lengthmay be maintained even if the dimensions differ from the exampledimensions. Certain disclosed example embodiments are illustrated as a¾″ valve, though larger or smaller valves may be used.

A given embodiment may include some or the totality of features,functionality, systems, and methods described herein.

As used herein, the term fluid means any liquid capable of distribution.In an example embodiment, the fluid is water-based and used inagricultural irrigation, drinking water, industrial water, or wastewater. Other example fluids may be cooling fluids, lubricant fluids, orthe like (e.g., oils, oil-water emulsions, a gas, or a water chemicalmixture used for chemigation, etc.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A-6G and 8A-8N, the disclosed exampleembodiments of controllable fluid output control valves include animpermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchable membrane303 attached to a rigid membrane support 312 and assembly 300 thatslides over and seals to a rigid valve seat 100. Many differentimpermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchable and rigidcombinations may be used, including an impermeable, compressible and/orflexible and/or stretchable seat 100 combined with a rigid membrane 703.

In disclosed embodiments, a membrane may move in a substantially planarfashion in a first axis, where the membrane does not deviate, in certaininstances, by more than 10 degrees from the first axis, and in certainother instances, not more than 25 degrees from the first axis. Incertain embodiments, more than half of the membrane travel is in aplanar motion. In certain embodiments, the actuation rotation isparallel to reciprocating closure elements (e.g., the membrane) and asealing outlet.

FIG. 1A illustrates an example valve housing exterior of a 4-way pistonvalve. FIG. 1B illustrates the example embodiment of the valve of FIG.1A in an open position. FIG. 1C illustrates the example embodiment ofthe valve of FIG. 1A in a closed position. FIGS. 1D, 1E, 1F respectivelyillustrate example side, top, and bottom views of an example membraneassembly. FIG. 4H illustrates various views and example exteriordimensions of the 4-way piston valve of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example valve housing exterior of a 3-way pistonvalve. FIG. 2B illustrates the example embodiment of the valve of FIG.2A in an open position. FIG. 2C illustrates the example embodiment ofthe valve of FIG. 2B in a closed position. FIGS. 2D, 2E, 2F illustraterespectively example side, top, and bottom views of an example membraneassembly. FIG. 2G illustrates various views and example exteriordimensions of the 3-way piston valve of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A illustrates an example valve housing exterior of a motorizedpiston valve. FIG. 3B illustrates the example embodiment of the valve ofFIG. 3A in an open position. FIG. 3C illustrates the example embodimentof the valve of FIG. 3A in a closed position. FIGS. 3D, 3E, 3Frespectively illustrate example side, top, and bottom views of anexample membrane assembly of the valve of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3G illustratesan example motorized piston valve and motor switch assembly in the openposition. FIG. 3H illustrates an example motorized piston valve andmotor switch assembly in the closed position. FIG. 3I illustratesvarious views and example exterior dimensions of the motorized pistonvalve of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A illustrates an example valve housing exterior of a motorizedslide valve. FIG. 4B illustrates the example embodiment of the valve ofFIG. 4A in an open position. FIG. 4C illustrates the example embodimentof the valve of FIG. 4A in a closed position. FIGS. 4D and 4E illustrateexample top and bottom views of an example membrane assembly of thevalve of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4F illustrates an example motorized slide valveand motor switch assembly in the open position. FIG. 4G illustrates anexample motorized slide valve and motor switch assembly of the valve ofFIG. 4A in the closed position. FIG. 4H illustrates various views andexample exterior dimensions of the motorized slide valve of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A illustrates an example valve housing exterior of a motorizedslide valve with a relatively shorter slide. FIG. 5B illustrates theexample embodiment of the valve of FIG. 5A in an open position. FIG. 5Cillustrates the example embodiment of the valve of FIG. 5A in a closedposition. FIGS. 5D and 5E illustrate example top and bottom views of anexample membrane assembly of the valve of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5F illustratesvarious views and example exterior dimensions of the motorized shortenedslide valve of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A illustrates an example valve housing exterior of a motorizedpivot valve. FIG. 6B illustrates the example embodiment of the pivotvalve of FIG. 6A in an open position. FIG. 6C illustrates the exampleembodiment of the pivot valve of FIG. 6A in a closed position. FIG. 6Dillustrates an example pivot membrane assembly, motor, and linkage.FIGS. 6E and 6F illustrate example top and bottom views of an examplemembrane assembly of the motorized pivot valve of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6Gillustrates various views and example exterior dimensions of themotorized pivot valve of the motorized pivot valve of FIG. 6A.

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate an example valve control circuit and controlstates.

FIG. 8A illustrates an example valve housing exterior of anotherembodiment of a motorized pivot valve. FIG. 8B illustrates the exampleembodiment of the motorized pivot valve of FIG. 8A in an open position.FIG. 8C illustrates the example embodiment of the motorized pivot valveof FIG. 8A in a closed position. FIG. 8D illustrates an example linkagetop view. FIG. 8E illustrates an example linkage bottom view. FIG. 8Fillustrates an example membrane assembly. FIG. 8G illustrates variousview and example linkage dimensions of the motorized pivot valve of FIG.8A. FIG. 8H illustrates an example bottom view of a circuit board usedto mount circuit control components for the motorized pivot valve ofFIG. 8A. FIGS. 8I, 8J illustrate circuit board positions. FIG. 8Killustrates a moisture barrier and wet and dry cavities for themotorized pivot valve of FIG. 8A. FIG. 8L illustrates various views andexample exterior dimensions of the motorized pivot valve of FIG. 8A.FIG. 9 illustrates an example electrical circuit that may be used withthe motorized pivot valve of FIG. 8A.

In FIGS. 1A-4H, 6A-6G and 8A-8N, the example embodiments include twochambers 211 and 212 where the membrane assembly 300 reciprocates toopen, close or regulate fluid flow passing from the inlet 130 to theoutlet 140. The inlet 130 in certain example embodiments has on orifice(e.g., a threaded orifice) configured to be coupled with a fluid supplyconduit, where the inlet 130 has a passageway that communicates fluidfrom the supply conduit to an orifice that opens up to a valve chamber.Similarly, the outlet 140 in certain example embodiments has an orifice(e.g., a threaded orifice) configured to be coupled with a outputconduit (e.g., connected to a sprinkler system or other destination),where the inlet 140 has a passageway that communicates, via an orificethat opens to the valve chamber, fluid from the valve chamber to theoutput conduit.

In FIGS. 1A-4H, 6A-6G and 8A-8N, the membrane assembly has a passage 302where fluid passes through the membrane assembly 300 as it travelsthrough the valve. In FIGS. 5B-D the carrier assembly 300 is shortened(relative to the examples in FIGS. 1A-4H, 6A-6G and 8A-8N) so that fluidtravels around the side of the assembly rather than through it.

Optionally, the example membrane assemblies have a debris vent 315 whichallows excess debris to spill out of the vent rather than accumulate inthe floating space 313 or between the membrane 303 and the support 312.This debris vent may be small or so large that virtually the entiremembrane 303 is exposed toward the inlet 130 side of the valve, tominimize entrapment between the membrane 303 and membrane support 312.

Optionally, where there is a passage 302, a radius or flow guide 316 (asillustrated in FIG. 4E) may be added to the fluid entrance or bottomside of the assembly 300 to reduce turbulence. Optionally, a protrusionor flow guide may be added to the inlet side 130 of the valve to reducefluid turbulence and minimize pressure loss.

The figures depict the example geometry and orientation of the membraneassembly 300 with respect to the closure seat 100. This enables theassembly 300 and membrane 303 to align and seal with the valve seat 100.Optionally, the seat 100 is mostly parallel and opposingly faced to theimpermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchable membrane303 which is mounted on top of membrane assembly 300 to a membranesupport 312 that accommodates fastening two or all four sides ofmembrane 303 to the membrane assembly 300. Optionally, the membrane 303may be attached on just one side, where all other sides (3 other sideswhen in the shape of a rectangle or square) are not fastened or do notrequire fastening.

Sealing is achieved on the downstream side of the valve, between 303 and100. This single sealing interface in this example (on the downstreamside versus sealing both downstream and upstream) utilizes the pressuredelivered from inlet 130 (which has an orifice configured to be coupledto a conduit and a fluid passageway to an interior orifice communicatingwith the valve chamber) to hold the valve closed. The disclosed examplesembodiments have a mostly laminar fluid flow path, minimizing pressureloss, however pressure loss and flow control can be achieved bypartially opening or closing the valve or by achieving a partial sealbetween the seat 100 and the impermeable, compressible and/or flexibleand/or stretchable membrane 303.

Many membrane 303 shapes may be utilized, including two-dimensionalshapes (e.g., square, rectangle, triangle, hexagon, pentagon, oval,octagon) and many three-dimensional shapes (e.g., cube, cuboid, strip,sphere, cone, cylinder). The membrane shape may be selected toaccommodate different pressures, membrane densities, membranedurometers, valve sizes, shapes, and designs. Optionally, as dimensionsof the membrane 303 change, the mating surfaces of seat 100 will alsochange to accommodate a seal. To clarify, there are other options thanjust a flat sealing closure for the valve, and these may include slightconvex or other three dimensional mating surfaces between the membraneand the outlet seat 100.

Referring again to FIGS. 1A-3I, embodiments of controllable fluid outputcontrol valves and example designs are described whereby differentexample methods are used to actuate the valve. In the illustratedexamples, the membrane assembly 300 has a piston shape and can functionlike a piston. As described below, an open state enables fluid to flowfrom the inlet to the outlet, while a closed state prevents flow.

As illustrated, a membrane assembly 300 has two ends 304 and 305, and asolid element (membrane support 312) connecting/attaching the ends 304,305. The space between the ends is where fluid pressure is exposed tothe inner surfaces 310 and 311 of piston ends 304, 305. The membrane 303is affixed to the assembly 300 adjacent to the inner surfaces 310 and311 of the piston ends, but other membrane positions and attachmentmethods may be utilized. In this example, each piston end 304, 305incorporates O-rings 301 for sealing inside the cylindrical valvechambers 211 and 212, but other sealing methods may be used. Optionally,no sealing members are provided.

To open the valve, the piston assembly is positioned to the right (intochamber 212) so that the closure seat 100 is above the membrane assemblypassage 302 (see, e.g., FIG. 2B). To close the valve, the portion of themembrane 303 opposite the membrane assembly passage 302 and adjacent tothe inside of the piston inner surface 311 is positioned next to theseat 100. The pressure forces from the inlet 130 side position themembrane 303 against the closure seat 100, closing off fluid flow fromoutlet 140. The assembly stops at the end of a transition by its innerends 310 and 311 running into and stopping at the protruding closureseat 100. In this example, the primary sealing materials are themembrane 303 and the two O-rings 301 around piston ends which are incontact with chambers 211 and 212.

During cold weather, to allow residual fluids to expand without damagingcomponents, and or to allow fluids to drain, the valves may beoptionally configured with one or many orifices/holes 306 in one or bothpiston ends. These holes (e.g., circular holes, 1/64 inch to ½″ inch indiameter), extend from the inside to the outside of the piston ends,from outer surfaces 304 and 305 to inner surfaces 310 and 311respectively. Further to this example embodiment, flexible flap(s)(e.g., a rubber flap) are optionally configured in association with theperforations to form one or more unidirectional valves 308 and 309.Optionally, the direction of flow through these valves is from the outersurfaces of piston ends 304 and 305, to the inner surfaces 310 and 311respectively. When the inside of the valve is pressurized from inlet130, these flaps remain closed or mostly closed, even when fluidpressure, to pilot the valve, is delivered from ports 210 and/or 220.

Fluid pressure on the inner surfaces 310 and 311 of the piston assemblyis sufficient to keep these flaps closed and allow pressure on the outersurfaces of the piston ends 304 and 305 to position the piston assembly300 in a respective direction. When a fluid system is turned off, thepressure delivered to inlet 130 drops, and the valve drains of fluidfrom the inlet 130 and/or the outlet 140, and a void may appear in theinner cavity of the piston, between piston ends 310 and 311. Chambers211 and 212 however may be less able to drain, but perforations 306-307(e.g., FIGS. 1D, 1F) may be provided that allow fluid to percolatethrough and into the cavity of the piston, between the inner surfaces310 and 311 of the piston ends.

FIGS. 1B-F and 3B-3H depict a symmetrical membrane assembly 300, withboth pistons ends (with outer surfaces 304 and 305) the same diameter.This balances fluid pressure forces on the piston assembly insides whichreduces forces needed to move the piston assembly. The valve bodyincludes two optionally equal diameter chambers 211 and 212 where thepiston assembly 300 reciprocates to open or closed positions. To openthe valve in FIGS. 1B-F, pressure is applied via port 210 while port 220is simultaneously vented. To close the valve, pressure is applied viaport 220 while port 210 is simultaneously vented. The valve in FIGS.1A-F is optionally operated with a 4-way pilot valve.

FIGS. 2A-F depict an example asymmetrical membrane assembly 300, with apiston end having an outer surface 304 and inside surface 310 with alarger diameter than the opposite piston end with outer surface 305 andinner surface 311 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2D-2F), which generates internalfluid forces, supplied from the inlet 130, to move the piston. The valvehousing/body includes, in this example, two different diameter chambers,where chamber 211 is larger than 212. Each piston end incorporatesO-rings 301 for sealing inside the cylindrical valve chambers 211 and212, but other sealing methods may be used. To open the valve, pressureis applied via port 210 and into chamber 211. To close the valve,chamber 211 is vented via port 210 and the internal forces on the pistonforce the valve shut.

The ratio of diameters is selected to ensure sufficient closing forcebut to not make it so that the pilot pressure at port 210 must exceedthe inlet 130 pressure of the valve. Typically, this ratio is optimalwith a diameter ratio of the open/close piston at about 1.3:1, and theratio for the piston area would be about 1.8:1, but it may range upwardor downward (e.g., by 1% to 30%). In this example, just one end of thepiston is perforated 306 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2D-F) with a one-way valve308. This one-way valve 308 is on the inner surface 310 of the pistonend. This valve is operated with a 3-way pilot valve. A visual indicator160 may be affixed to or engraved/molded into piston end outer surface305 to assist an operator in determining whether the valve is open orclosed.

Certain aspects will now be described in greater detail with referenceto FIGS. 3A-8N. The example illustrated valve has certain structures assimilarly discussed above, such as an inlet 130, and outlet 140,chambers 211 and 212, membrane assembly 300, an impermeable,compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchable membrane 303.

As illustrated, an electric motor 400 drives an actuator which moves themembrane assembly 300. Optionally, said actuator may be a leadscrew 401which engages the assembly at a female member 402 (see, e.g., FIG. 3F).

FIGS. 3A-H depict a piston style membrane assembly 300 where the powerconsumption may be, in an example embodiment, approximately 0.7 amps for18 seconds at 6 VDC, or 4.2 watts, or 76 watt-seconds to switch betweenOn/Off or Off/On. This embodiment may be modified to utilizeasymmetrical piston ends which can enable the motor power requirementsto be reduced in one direction.

FIGS. 4D, E illustrates an example flow guide 316 with slanted walls atan extended partway into the passage 302 (on inlet side 130) entrance toadvantageously reduce turbulence and pressure losses. The flow guide 316may be utilized with other embodiments disclosed herein.

The example membrane assemblies illustrated in FIGS. 4B-6F and 8B-F donot have piston ends, and as a result requires less precision, lesspower, and the valve's internal members are less vulnerable to abrasionas compared to embodiments with piston ends.

In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4A-5F and 8A-N fluid is keptfrom the electronic components by a moisture barrier 213 (see, e.g.,FIG. 4G) to thereby prevent the shorting out or other malfunction of theelectronic components.

The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5A-F is similar to that illustratedin FIGS. 4A-H, however the membrane assembly 300 utilized in theembodiment of FIGS. 5A-F is significantly shorter (e.g., approximatelyhalf the length) than that illustrated in FIGS. 4B-G. In addition, theembodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5A-F does not utilize the membraneassembly passage 302 and chamber 212, and this absence simplifiesmanufacturing, enables a lower cost, and may result in a smaller valve.Fluid travels around the side of the assembly rather than through thepassage 302 as in certain other embodiments discussed above. A guide 317(see, e.g., FIG. 5C) for the membrane assembly may optionally be used toensure proper alignment with the closure seat 100, but such a guide isnot required. The leadscrew 401 illustrated in FIG. 5C may engage theassembly 303 at a female member 402 (see, e.g., FIG. 5D). While notillustrated in this drawing, electronic control can be achieved usingsimilar techniques as illustrated in as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-H and/orFIGS. 4A-G, and/or FIG. 9.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A-G, the illustrated example valve employssliding rotary movement of the membrane assembly 300. As similarlydiscussed with respect to certain other embodiments, this embodiment ofthe valve includes a motor, an inlet 130, and outlet 140, a rigid, andan impermeable flexible and/or stretchable and/or compressible membrane303 and rigid seat 100. The illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6E includes aworm drive 401 and a worm wheel 402.

The example membrane assembly 300 in this example is in the shape of apartial disk and has a pivot shaft 317 and bearing 318 where theassembly 300 is mounted and rotates. The membrane assembly 300 rotates(under control of the motor 150) partially from side to side to open orpartially close the valve, wherein the membrane assembly 300 is rotatedby the motor 150 to slide over the outlet orifice that protrudes intothe valve chamber to close the valve, and wherein the membrane assembly300 is rotated by the motor 150 to slide away from the outlet orificethat protrudes into the valve chamber to open the valve. Optionally, afull rotation of 360 degrees may be implemented.

A typical application using an example embodiment may consumeapproximately 1.2 amps for 2 seconds at 6 VDC, or 7 watts and 14watt-seconds to switch between On/Off or Off/On. Electronic control canbe achieved using similar techniques as illustrated in FIGS. 3-4 and 7.

Example electronic control components of valves illustrated in FIGS.3A-6G are detailed in various figures therein. Actuating force isprovided by a motor 400 which is mechanically connected to the membraneassembly 300. Assembly 300 mobilizes devices, such as a rod 403 (see,e.g., FIG. 3G, 4C), that open and close switches 409 and 410 (SW1 andSW2), as illustrated in FIGS. 7A-D which illustrates an electrical valvecontrol circuit which may be utilized with the example valves describedabove. Rod 403 is aided by a rod guide 404, rod limits 406 and 406, anda switch end 407 (see, e.g., FIGS. 3H, 4G, 7A, 7C). The guide 404ensures the rod 403 is properly aligned with the switches 409 and 410.The rod limits 405 and 406 act as a latching mechanism to keep theswitch end 407 in the appropriate position in relation to switches 409and 410 (SW1 and SW2). As illustrated in FIGS. 7A-B, this examplecircuit is comprised of two normally closed single pole single throw(SPST) switches 409 and 410 (SW1 and SW2) along with two diodes 415 and416 (D1 and D2); alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 3H, one singlepole double throw (SPDT) switch 411 may be utilized to replace the twoSPST switches 409, 410.

FIGS. 7A-D illustrate operational states one through four for theembodiments in FIGS. 3A-6G. The motor direction is controlled by the DCpolarity, where changing polarity opens or closes or controls the valve.In State one (as illustrated in FIG. 7A), which is the initial startingcondition for purposes of illustration. where both limit switches 409and 410 are closed and the valve is either open or closed. To transitionfrom state one, DC current is applied in the polarity as shown and flowsthrough switch 410 (SW2) via diode 416 (D2) to actuate the motor 400 tomove the valve rod 403 toward the desired position. When the valve rod403 reaches the desired position, switch 410 (SW2) opens to stop themotor.

State one is functionally identical or similar to state four (asdescribed herein) when the polarity of state one is applied. In statetwo (as illustrated in FIG. 7B), the motor 400 and valve remainstationary and no current is flowing. To transition from state two, theDC polarity is reversed and current flows through switch 409 (SW1) anddiode 415 (D1), causing the motor 400 to reverse direction. In statethree (as illustrated in FIG. 7C), switch 409 (SW1) opens to stop themotor 400, and switch 410 (SW2) is closed, where the valve can be ineither an open or closed position. To transition from state three tostate four (as illustrated in FIG. 7D), the motor 400 and valve remainstationary and no current is flowing. In state four, switch 409 (SW1) isopen and switch 410 (SW2) is closed. To transition from state four tostate one, the DC supply power polarity is reversed. Other circuits anddevices may be utilized to power and control the valves.

Certain aspects will now be described in greater detail with referenceto FIGS. 8A-9 which illustrate valves and valve components for anotherexample embodiment of a motorized pivot valve that controls fluid flowbetween the inlet 130 and the outlet 140 (which may optionally bethreaded, and may have orifices and passageways as similarly discussedabove and as illustrated in FIG. 8K). It is understood that designalternatives and substitutions are possible. As will be discussed, amulti-link mechanism may be utilized to close and open the valve bypivoting an impermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/or stretchablemembrane to slide over an outlet seat.

The disclosed example shape and tolerances of the membrane assembly 300offer certain significant advantages. Use of a relatively thinnermembrane support 312 (see, e.g., FIG. 8E) enables debris to more freelypass by the assembly. An adhesive may be utilized to attach a membrane303 (e.g., an impermeable, compressible and/or flexible and/orstretchable membrane) to the support 312. Thus, the membrane 303 may beflexible prior to being adhesively attached to the support 312, but onceattached, the backside of the membrane 303 may now be rigid, and thefront of the membrane 303 may remain impermeable, compressible and/orflexible and/or stretchable.

Eliminating the optional debris vent 315 illustrated in FIGS. 8E, 8Gwhile also using an adhesive to attach the membrane 303 (see, e.g., FIG.8F) to the support 312 aids in preventing debris migration between thetwo elements. The example embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 8A-9 haverelatively tight tolerances (e.g., in the range of 0.002 to 0.005inches) between the membrane assembly 300 and the surrounding chambers211 and 212 (see, e.g., FIG. 8K) in which the assembly rotates, which isdesigned to prevent debris from migrating into chambers 211 and 212.Alternatively, debris may be allowed to migrate into said chambers withwider gaps such as 0.01 to 0.25 inches between the assembly and thesurrounding chambers to avoid jamming. A motor housing 150 mayoptionally be a non-metal housing.

With reference to FIGS. 8B-8E, a motor 400 and pinion 500 drives a gear501, the gear 501 in this example being the first bar in a planarfour-bar linkage, where the bars may be pivotally coupled. For example,the four-bar linkage may comprise four links connected by fourone-degree-of-freedom joints (e.g., a hinged or sliding joint). Motorand actuation rotation are parallel to reciprocating closure elementsand sealing outlet.

The second bar 506 is connected to the third bar 510, and the fourth baris the membrane assembly 300. The gear 501 pivots at a pivot at location502, and is connected to the second bar 506 at pivots located at points507 and 503, where the links rotate/pivot freely. The second bar 506 isattached to the third bar 510 at pivot points 508 and 511, where thelinks rotate/pivot freely. Bar 510, via pivot point 512, is linked tothe membrane assembly 300 via the assembly's pivot shaft 317. The shaft317 is fixed at point 319 and does not rotate freely in this example.

With reference to FIG. 8K, the valve includes a dry cavity 214 and a wetcavity 215, where the wet cavity 215 is exposed to the fluids which passthrough the valve. Optionally, the primary moving part inside the wetcavity 215 is the membrane assembly 300 and its rotating shaft 317. Acontinuous moisture barrier 214 made of the same material as the valvehousing and integral to the housing structure divides the wet cavity 215and the dry cavity 214.

The linkage mechanism transfers power and movement from the motor 400 toopen, close, or control the motorized pivot valve of FIGS. 8A-N. Abenefit of this multi-bar linkage is that it delivers variable torque(with reduced power requirements at switching points), with the greatesttorque at both end points of open or closed. Where valve stiction isgreatest, as the motor initiates the move from valve closure towards anopen state, this linkage produces torque so great that it is difficultto calculate. This enables a small motor (e.g., about 1.5 W,approximately 5 cm long by 2 cm in diameter) to easily overcome stictionwhen opening the valve and overcoming the fluid pressure holding thevalve closed. Conversely, this variable torque provided by the linkageassembly adds speed to the movement of the membrane assembly betweenclosed and open positions, after stiction is overcome.

Example dimensions of an embodiment of the bar linkage are provided inFIG. 8G. These dimensions enable the disclosed torque and mechanicaladvantages as well as variable torque and mechanical advantages(although other dimensions may be utilized). The mechanical advantage ofthe example linkage and gear system is approximately 60-70 at the pointsbefore and after valve closure, where stiction is greatest and thisadvantage is needed most, and 9-10 before and after valve opening. In anexample embodiment, at a fluid pressure of 90 psi, the motor torquerequired in and around the closed position of the valve will beapproximately 4.0-6.0 ozf-in (ounce force inch) where mechanicaladvantage from the linkage and gears of approximately 60-70, and aroundthe open position the motor torque required would be approximately 32-34ozf-in with mechanical advantage from the linkage and gears ofapproximately 8-12, and the peak torque requirement (near midpointbetween open and close) would be approximately 80-100 ozf-in. with amechanical advantage of 3-5 where movement speed is greatest.

An example circuit board and electrical control circuit are illustratedin FIGS. 8H-I and 9. A snap action mechanism (sometimes referred to asbistable, over-center, or tipping-point mechanism) ensures improvedprecision time switching of the SPDT reed switch 611. As the gear 501rotates back and forth, switch triggers 504 and 505 protruding from thegear tilt a latching lever 601 which is attached to a spring 612. Thespring 612 is attached to the swinging side 603 of the latching lever601 which pivots at the opposite end 602. The spring 612 is attached viaattachment mechanism 606 (e.g., a hook, pin, screw, or rivet) to thepivoting point of a second latching lever 605 which has a magnetattached to its swinging end 607. The magnet 610 actuates a SPDT reedswitch that serves to stop a DC motor once DC voltage has been appliedat various times in reversing polarity. This snap action mechanismaccelerates and standardizes the positioning and timing of the magnet inthe triggering proximity (activation distance) of the reed switch. Thesnap action also broadens the AT (amp turns) range of the reed switchesand magnet strengths, further reducing costs. A SPDT reed switch enablesthe use of a single switch versus two SPST switches as discussed withrespect to FIGS. 7A-D. Optionally, in addition to or instead of a reedswitch, a limit switch may be used.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example electrical control circuit that optionallycan be used to control the valves illustrated in FIGS. 6A-G and 8A-N.The motor direction is controlled by changing DC polarity which opens,closes, or controls the valve by moving the membrane assembly from oneside to another to open or close the valve. An advantage of thisoptional method and circuit is that it uses just one single pole doublethrow (SPDT) reed switch versus two SPST switches, which minimizescomplexity. This circuit and method of motor control, which engages theswitch contacts only to disconnect power from the motor, also eliminatesexposure of the switch contacts to inrush current from the motor andminimizes arcing between the contacts which may extend the life of theswitch considerably. Various components (e.g., Zenner diodes) areemployed to protect the circuit and components from incoming surges aswell as to further protect components from inductive energy when themotor is switched off.

Another optional advantage with respect to the example circuit is thatelectrical switching occurs only when the valve has completed a “close”or “open” movement. Because this is also when the mechanical advantagefrom this linkage is greatest, the switching contacts are exposed to theleast amperage, further extending the life of the switch. For example,in an optional embodiment, at 90 psi and 12 VDC, the system may run peakamps in the range of 500 mA, but when the switching happens the systemand switching contacts may see less than 250 mA at or near the openposition and less than 100 mA at or near the closed position, wherestiction is greatest. Greatest stiction will be when the valve initiatesthe transition from a closed (no fluid can pass) to open position (fluidpasses), and the motor needs to overcome the force (which may be about90 spi, although higher or lower force may be present) on the membrane303 against the valve seat 100

FIGS. 8M-N illustrate an impermeable closure membrane 303 that flexes,compresses, stretches and/or otherwise forms a seal is similar to themembrane in FIGS. 8D-F, except the membrane 303 in FIGS. 8M-8N is notattached to the support 312. Optionally, the membrane 303 is attached toa rigid plate 320 with adhesive (without requiring the use of mechanicalfasteners, although such mechanical fasteners, such as screws or rivets,may be used in addition or instead). Optionally, the membrane may nothave any backing plate and may be constructed of a harder durometer thanmembranes that utilize a backing plate.

Membrane alignment is partially provided by the membrane assemblies'pivoting arm and membrane assembly structure. Positioning,transitioning, sealing, and unsealing, of the sealing membrane 303 maybe driven by a combination or from independent actuating systems,including stretching, flexing, compressing, rocking, sliding, orhorizontal movement in relation to the sealing outlet orifice. In thisexample, horizontal movement of the membrane is employed in contrast toembodiments illustrated in certain other figures.

The membrane 303 and backing plate “float” or move freely within theconfines of the membrane support cavity 322 which is within the membranesupport 312 structure next to the debris vent 315. The lower limit offloating is defined by the backer support ridges 321 which areoptionally integral to and built into the support. The backer supportridges 321 also define how much space is between the membrane 303 andvalve seat 100 (which is also the upper limit of the floating space).The length and width dimensions of the membrane are preferably largerthan the diameter and/or dimensions of the valve seat, to ensurecomplete sealing when the valve is closed. This floating is enabled by amembrane and/or membrane with backing plate that are shorter in lengthand width than the support cavity. As an example, with a ¾″ valve thelength of the cavity may be 1.550″ whereas the length of the membrane303 and backing may only be 1.500″. This difference in dimensionsreduces friction between the membrane 303 and membrane backer and thewalls of the cavity. This space also minimizes friction between lodgeddebris such as sand and organic debris that may become lodged or passthrough these spaces.

The membrane 303 may be the same or different size as the backing plate,for example, the membrane may hang over the edges of a backing plate by0-5 mm in a ¾″ valve. The backing plate may have a single or multipleholes to modify the structural properties of the membrane backer supportridges 321 under various pressure scenarios as well as during moving orpositioning schemes, in order to enable the valve to achieve performanceobjectives including reduced power requirements, reducing water hammer,and increasing membrane mobility in the cavity and support interfaceabove the debris vent.

The shape of the membrane 303 and backing plate may vary considerablywith shapes including those mentioned before for both two dimensional(e.g., circle, rectangle) and three dimensional (e.g., sphere, cube,rectangle). Whichever shape is utilized, a corresponding mating cavitywill be present in the membrane cavity, ridges, and debris vent.Additional channels may be added to the membrane support 312 anddimensions may be increased to reduce the amount of debris getting stuckbetween the support and the surrounding cavity.

The backing plate 320 may be made of one or more of the rigid polymersdiscussed herein and/or other rigid polymers. The backing plate may bemore rigid or less rigid than the membrane 303. If the backing plate ismore rigid than the membrane 303, the backing plate stiffness may assistin keeping the membrane from developing ridges and/or other deformitieson its surface as it is moved and positioned under pressure to seal withvalve seat 100 or positioned off of the seat.

Thus, various valves are disclosed that provide reduced pressure drop,higher reliability, and less susceptibility to debris blockages andwear.

It should be noted that the terms “couple,” “coupling,” “coupled” orother variations of the word couple as used herein may indicate eitheran indirect connection or a direct connection. For example, if a firstcomponent is “coupled” to a second component, the first component may beeither indirectly connected to the second component via anothercomponent or directly connected to the second component.

The methods disclosed herein comprise one or more steps or actions forachieving the described method. The method steps and/or actions may beinterchanged with one another without departing from the scope of theclaims. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions isrequired for proper operation of the method that is being described, theorder and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modifiedwithout departing from the scope of the claims.

As used herein, the term “plurality” denotes two or more. For example, aplurality of components indicates two or more components. The term“determining” encompasses a wide variety of actions and, therefore,“determining” can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving,investigating, looking up (e.g., looking up in a table, a database oranother data structure), ascertaining and the like. Also, “determining”can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g.,accessing data in a memory) and the like. Also, “determining” caninclude resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing and the like.

The phrase “based on” does not mean “based only on,” unless expresslyspecified otherwise. In other words, the phrase “based on” describesboth “based only on” and “based at least on.”

The previous description of the disclosed implementations is provided toenable any person skilled in the art to make or use the presentinvention. Various modifications to these implementations will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principlesdefined herein may be applied to other implementations without departingfrom the scope of the invention. For example, it will be appreciatedthat one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to employ a numbercorresponding alternative and equivalent structural details, such asequivalent ways of fastening, mounting, coupling, or engaging toolcomponents, equivalent mechanisms for producing particular actuationmotions, and equivalent mechanisms for delivering electrical energy.Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to theimplementations shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scopeconsistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An irrigation valve, comprising: a housing havingan exterior surface and an interior surface, the interior surfacedefining at least one chamber, the housing having: a fluid inlet definedby a fluid inlet wall, the fluid inlet wall defining a first fluid inletorifice configured to engage a first fluid conduit, wherein the fluidinlet wall does not extend into the chamber, and wherein the fluid inletcomprises a second fluid inlet orifice defined by the interior surfaceof the housing, wherein the fluid inlet is configured to communicatefluid from the first fluid conduit via the first fluid inlet orifice tothe second fluid inlet orifice, and from the second fluid inlet orificeto the chamber; a fluid outlet defined by a fluid outlet wall andcomprising a first fluid outlet orifice and a second fluid outletorifice, the fluid outlet wall configured to: to engage a second fluidconduit via the first fluid outlet orifice, communicate fluid, via thesecond fluid outlet orifice, from the chamber to the second fluidconduit; a movable rigid substrate having a first surface and a secondsurface, wherein the first surface is closer to the second fluid outletorifice than the second surface; and a compressible and/or impermeableand/or stretchable membrane mounted on the first surface of the movablerigid substrate, wherein the movable rigid substrate is configured to bepositioned so that the compressible and/or impermeable and/orstretchable membrane is located between the second fluid inlet orificeand the second fluid outlet orifice when the irrigation valve is in aclosed position, and wherein a fluid pressure within the chamber causesthe compressible and/or impermeable and/or stretchable membrane to sealthe second fluid outlet orifice, and not the second fluid inlet orifice,when the irrigation valve is in the closed position, and wherein themovable rigid substrate is configured to move along a path.
 2. Theirrigation valve as defined in claim 1, wherein the irrigation valve isconfigured to partially open or partially close to modify flow rates offluid flowing through the valve from the fluid inlet to the fluidoutlet.
 3. The irrigation valve as defined in claim 1, wherein theirrigation valve is configured to partially open or partially close tomodify fluid pressure.
 4. The irrigation valve as defined in claim 1,wherein the membrane is configured to act in two dimensions.
 5. Theirrigation valve as defined in claim 1, wherein the membrane isconfigured to act in two dimensions, the membrane comprising a square,rectangle, triangle, hexagon, pentagon, oval, or octagon shape.
 6. Theirrigation valve as defined in claim 1, wherein the membrane isconfigured to act in three dimensions.
 7. The irrigation valve asdefined in claim 1, wherein the membrane is configured to act in threedimensions, the membrane comprising a cube, cuboid, strip, sphere, cone,or cylinder shape.
 8. The irrigation valve as defined in claim 1,wherein the irrigation valve comprises one or more fluid venting ports.9. The irrigation valve as defined in claim 1, wherein the irrigationvalve is configured as a two-way valve.
 10. The irrigation valve asdefined in claim 1, wherein the irrigation valve is configured as athree-way valve.
 11. The irrigation valve as defined in claim 1, whereinthe irrigation valve is configured as a four-way valve.
 12. A valve,comprising: a housing having an exterior surface and an interiorsurface, the interior surface defining at least one chamber, the housinghaving: a fluid inlet defined by a fluid inlet wall, the fluid inletwall defining a first fluid inlet orifice configured to engage a firstfluid conduit, wherein the fluid inlet comprises a second fluid inletorifice defined by the interior surface of the housing, wherein thefluid inlet is configured to communicate fluid from the first fluidconduit via the first fluid inlet orifice to the second fluid inletorifice, and from the second fluid inlet orifice to the chamber; a fluidoutlet defined by a fluid outlet wall and comprising a first fluidoutlet orifice and a second fluid outlet orifice, the fluid outlet wallconfigured to: to engage a second fluid conduit via the first fluidoutlet orifice, a movable substrate having a first surface and a secondsurface, wherein the first surface is closer to the second fluid outletorifice than the second surface; and a compressible and/or impermeableand/or stretchable membrane mounted on the first surface of the movablesubstrate, wherein the movable substrate is configured to be positionedso that the compressible and/or impermeable and/or stretchable membraneis located between the second fluid inlet orifice and the second fluidoutlet orifice when the valve is in a closed position, and wherein afluid pressure within the chamber causes the compressible and/orimpermeable and/or stretchable membrane to seal the second fluid outletorifice, and notthe second fluid inlet orifice, when the valve is in theclosed position, and wherein the movable substrate is configured to movealong a path.
 13. The valve as defined in claim 12, wherein the valve isconfigured to partially open or partially close to modify flow rates offluid flowing through the valve from the fluid inlet to the fluidoutlet.
 14. The valve as defined in claim 12, wherein the valve isconfigured to partially open or partially close to modify fluidpressure.
 15. The valve as defined in claim 12, wherein the membrane isconfigured to act in two dimensions.
 16. The valve as defined in claim12, wherein the membrane is configured to act in two dimensions, themembrane comprising a square, rectangle, triangle, hexagon, pentagon,oval, or octagon shape.
 17. The valve as defined in claim 12, whereinthe membrane is configured to act in three dimensions.
 18. The valve asdefined in claim 12, wherein the membrane is configured to act in threedimensions, the membrane comprising a cube, cuboid, strip, sphere, cone,or cylinder shape.
 19. The valve as defined in claim 12, wherein thevalve comprises one or more fluid venting ports.
 20. The valve asdefined in claim 12, wherein the valve is configured as a two-way valve.21. The valve as defined in claim 12, wherein the valve is configured asa three-way valve.
 22. The valve as defined in claim 12, wherein thevalve is configured as a four-way valve.